COUNCIL APPROVES GRANT FOR DRUG ENFORCEMENT

TUSCALOOSA -- The Tuscaloosa City Council on Thursday approved a $377,605
grant for the Tuscaloosa Metro Drug Enforcement Task Force.

The money will cover one year of operating expenses for the multi-agency
unit that investigates all drug cases in the county.

Using drug confiscation money awarded by the courts, the task force will
provide 25 percent matching funds totaling $125,868.

Tuscaloosa Police Department Capt. David Hartin said that 2002 was the most
successful year for the drug enforcement unit since it was formed in 1977.
Indications are that 2003 will be an even more successful year, he said.

The grant will be provided by the Alabama Department of Economic and
Community Affairs.